Yankees Viewed as ‘Top Contender’ to Acquire $260 Million, 8-Time All-Star in Trade
The trade rumors surrounding Nolan Arenado have persisted since before the 2024 season ended, but as the St. Louis Cardinals progress through their 2025 spring training schedule, the star third baseman remains with the team. According to The Athletic, Cardinals president of baseball operations John Mozeliak informed Arenado he would explore moving his contract. In response, the eight-time All-Star provided a list of five teams he would approve for a trade: the Los Angeles Dodgers, Boston Red Sox, New York Yankees, San Diego Padres, and Houston Astros.
However, due to Arenado’s no-trade clause in his eight-year, $260 million contract—originally signed with the Colorado Rockies—Mozeliak had limited options. When the Cardinals reached an agreement with Houston, Arenado reconsidered and rejected the trade. Boston also dropped out of the picture after signing former Astros third baseman Alex Bregman. Meanwhile, with Max Muncy and Manny Machado securing third base for the Dodgers and Padres, only one viable option remains.
On the “Foul Territory” podcast, former MLB catchers Erik Kratz and A.J. Pierzynski pointed to the Yankees as the leading destination if St. Louis still hopes to trade Arenado. “How badly does he want to win?” Kratz questioned, suggesting Arenado could expand his list to include all 30 teams. However, Pierzynski emphasized that based on current rosters, the Yankees are the most logical landing spot.
New York’s primary third base option, DJ LeMahieu, has struggled with injuries over the past four seasons. If he remains sidelined, the Yankees may look to St. Louis as a solution. Arenado not only provides a more reliable bat—despite a modest .719 OPS in 2024, compared to LeMahieu’s .527—but also offers superior defense. Arenado registered six defensive runs saved last season, while LeMahieu performed below league average.
With limited trade options remaining, the Yankees appear to be the strongest contender if Arenado ultimately waives his no-trade clause to leave St. Louis.
